Brain Foods to Upgrade Your Brain

Blueberries
Blueberries have been shown to have the highest concentration of antioxidants of any fruit that has been studied. One half cup of blueberries has as much antioxidant power as five servings of carrots, peas, apples, broccoli, or squash. Blueberries offer protection from oxidative stress in the heart — as well as the brain.

Carrots
A Harvard University study showed American men who took 50mg of the antioxidant beta-carotene every other day for 15 years delayed cognitive ageing. Not a pill popper? Five servings of carrots a week reduce the risk of stroke by 68 percent.

Fish
Fatty fish is the richest source of omega-3 fatty acids, which have been touted as a brain tonic for young and old alike. In one study, elderly people who ate fish at least once a week slowed cognitive decline about 10 percent compared to those who didn't chow down on fish, and the fish-eaters also performed better on tests of memory and mental sharpness.

Green Tea
Researchers in Japan found drinking a cup a day cuts your risk of age-related cognitive decline by 37 percent compared to those who consume less. Let it steep for at least three minutes for more brain benefits. The helpful compounds, polyphenols, are also found in olive oil, chocolate and both beer and wine.

Raisins
Raisins are good for your brain because they are an excellent source of boron, a trace element that improves hand-eye coordination, attention and memory. Other good sources of boron include hazelnuts, almonds and dried apricots.

Rosemary
Japanese scientists found that a diet supplemented with rosemary extract resulted in less brain damage thanks to the herb's ability to combat free radicals, preventing the onset of degenerative conditions such as Alzheimer's and Lou Gehrig's disease.